Mary Elizabeth Hall née Foerst, known as Mary Beth, of Belford, passed away at the age of 85 at her home June 19, 2025.
Mary Beth was raised in Bayonne, where she had incredible memories of her childhood, doted on by her parents and beloved brother and surrounded by many aunts, uncles and cousins. Her family moved to Belmar while she was in middle school, and she attended St. Rose’s and then Asbury Park High School. While studying to be a teacher at Kean College, she met and married the love of her life, Ted. After she graduated, they settled in Belford, where they created their life together and raised their family. She was a diligent bookkeeper for the family locksmith business until the age of 82.
Mary Beth was predeceased by her parents, Henry (Harry) Foerst and Mary Foerst (née Clarke), her brother Henry (Harry) Foerst, whom she absolutely adored, her beloved husband and best friend, Theodore (Ted) Hall and her grandson Jessee Hall.
She is survived by her four children: Todd Hall and wife Kim, Ann Marie Reisig and husband Val, Tom Hall and wife Denise, and Mary Catherine Permenter and husband Brian. She is also survived by her beloved 14 grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and her “bonus” sisters, Joyce Tobin and Helen Foerst.
Mary Beth loved nothing more than spending time with her family and she would make every sacrifice to support them and attempt to bring them happiness in their everyday lives. Her kids always came first, without question. She loved socializing, spending her golden years with the stroke survivor group and then the seniors from the center, and cherished Saturday night outings with her bestie, Catherine Bonavita.
She was a devout member of St. Mary’s for over 60 years. She loved shopping and lived for a good bargain. She loved craft shows, lighthouses, playing tennis, car shows, motor-homing, Mickey Mouse, Disney trips, bacon, singing, dancing, gardening, her childhood dog Tippy, reading magazines, a glass or two of wine, puzzling and a good hot cup of tea.
She had a profound impact on so many people over the years. This world was fortunate to have her and her family was so lucky to call her mom, wife, grandma, great-grandma, sister, aunt and friend.
Visitation was held June 24 at John F. Pfleger Funeral Home, Middletown. A funeral Mass was held June 25 at St. Mary Mother of God Church, Middletown. Burial for family followed at Holy Cross Cemetery in North Arlington.
The article originally appeared in the July 3 – 10, 2025 print edition of The Two River Times.
